Yesterday, the Lebanese Ministry of Health announced the first death from cholera Since the disease was monitored in October, and about that, “The Seventh Day” provides all the medical information related to this disease from causes, symptoms and treatment methods, according to the Mayoclinc website.
What is cholera?
Cholera is a bacterial disease spread through contaminated water and can be fatal within hours.
What are the symptoms of cholera infection?
Symptoms of most cases of cholera are mild or moderate diarrhea that is difficult to differentiate from diarrhea caused by any other health problem, while others develop severe symptoms of cholera, often appear within several days of infection, and symptoms are:
Diarrhea, which occurs suddenly and exposes the patient to a loss of large proportions of fluid in the body, and it is pale in color.
Nausea and vomiting, vomiting occurs at the beginning of the infection and may last for a short period.
Dehydration, which occurs hours after the onset of symptoms and ranges in severity from mild to severe, and causes a loss of 10% or more of weight, which means severe dehydration.
Loss of body balance due to dehydration.
Painful muscle cramps, caused by a large loss of potassium and salt in the body.
What are the causes of cholera?
It is caused by a type of bacteria called Vibrio cholerae, and there are some factors that cause cholera, including:
Contaminated water sources are the main source of infection, as the bacteria “Vibrio cholera” are found in:
Soil surface or well water.
Uncooked seafood may increase the risk of cholera.
Raw fruits and vegetables are a frequent source of cholera infection in areas where cholera is present.
Cereals, rice and other cereals grown in places where cholera is common, can increase the chances of infection.
What are the complications of cholera infection?
It is considered one of the fastest deadly diseases in the case of the body losing many fluids rapidly, and dehydration, and the complications associated with it are the following:
– Causes a drop in blood circulation.
Low blood sugar due to inability to eat.
Low levels of potassium, whose low percentage affects the nerves of the body, and poses a threat to life.
Kidney failure is one of the complications due to the accumulation of excessive amounts of fluid in the body.
What tips to prevent cholera infection?
– Wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
Drink only safe water.
Eat well-cooked food, and avoid street vendor food.
Avoid raw or improperly cooked fish and seafood.
Stick to fruits and vegetables that you can peel yourself.
What is the treatment for cholera?
Replacing fluids lost by the body.
Taking intravenous fluids, in case of severe dehydration, patients may need intravenous fluids.
Antibiotics, to reduce diarrhea and severe symptoms of cholera.
Taking zinc supplements, as research has confirmed that zinc may reduce diarrhea and shorten the duration of infection.